2012 infiniti ex35 Model Overview

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As the smallest, most car-like crossover in Infiniti’s lineup, the Infiniti EX35 is a good choice for drivers looking for the performance of a sport sedan with a bit of added utility. Slotting beneath the larger, more powerful FX and full-size, eight-passenger QX, the EX emphasizes sportiness and style. With a 297-hp 3.5-liter V-6, and a sport-tuned suspension derived from the G sedan, the EX is on the sportier side of “Sport Utility.”

The result of that equipment is some pretty impressive performance for a crossover. When we last tested the EX, equipped with the previous five-speed automatic transmission and with optional all-wheel drive, it accelerated from 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds, and completed the quarter-mile in 14.9 seconds at 94.5 mph. A seven-speed automatic was added last year, and should help bring those numbers down. Handling and braking are close to sport sedan territory, with the EX posting an average of 0.81 g lateral acceleration, and a 123-foot 60-to-0 mph stopping distance in our tests.

A GT-style hatchback gives the EX a sleek silhouette, but detracts from its utility factor. Cargo volume is rated at 18.6 cubic-feet with the rear seats in place, while rear legroom is a modest 28.5 inches. Most of the Infiniti’s competitors tout at least 35 inches of rear legroom, but then again, the EX is a bit difficult to classify thanks to its sporty proportions and equipment. For those who have children or need to haul a lot of gear, the EX is a bit of a compromised choice.

For 2011, the EX35 replaced its five-speed automatic transmission with a seven-speed unit and also benefitted from increased rollover protection thanks to a reinforced roof. Those improvements carry over to the 2012 model, along with a new standard HomeLink universal garage door opener on EX35 Journey models. The sporty crossover continues service with a 297-hp 3.5-liter V-6 – part of Nissan’s award-winning VQ family of engines. Standard features like leather-upholstered power adjustable front seats, a seven-inch vehicle information display, six-speaker CD audio system, USB/iPod adaptor, and XM satellite radio make the EX35 as luxurious as it is sporty.

The EPA classifies the Infiniti EX35 as a small station wagon, which might not be far from the truth. With its streamlined hatchback and relatively low ground clearance, the EX could almost pass as a wagon version of its platform-mate, the G sedan. But it’s also this distinction that gives it the sporty edge over compact SUV competitors like the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class, and Acura RDX. The EX’s raked rear roofline lends it a sleek profile, while the elongated headlights give the impression of speed. An integrated rear roof spoiler is standard, and further adds to the EX’s sporty look. Also standard are 18-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, and polished dual exhaust tips. A set of 19-inch five-spoke alloy wheels are available through the Deluxe package.

According to Infiniti, the EX35’s seats are inspired by a finely tailored Kimono, with its standard leather upholstery. The look is unique, and blends well with the rest of the EX’s cabin. An eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat and four-way power adjustable front passenger’s seat come standard. Rear seats aren’t the most spacious, with 28.5 inches of legroom and 37.7 to 38.4 inches of headroom, depending on equipment. Cargo volume behind the rear seats is rated at 18.6 cubic-feet, though the standard 60/40 split folding rear seats increase that volume. The EX’s leather upholstery comes in Wheat, Chestnut, or Graphite, while trim accent choices include maple, black lacquer, and aluminum.

As it’s based on Nissan’s FM (front-mid) platform, the Infiniti EX35 possesses an inherent handling ability. This fact helps blur the line between sport sedan and crossover, and will likely satisfy driving enthusiasts not willing to give up sportiness for utility. The EX is powered by Nissan’s award-winning 3.5-liter VQ V-6 engine, which produces 297 hp and 253 lb-ft of torque. This power is sent to the rear wheels, or all four wheels if the all-wheel drive model is chosen, through a seven-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode and automatically rev-matched downshifts. In our tests, this combination is good for zero to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds.

The Infiniti EX gets standard dual-stage front airbags, front side-impact airbags, and front and rear side curtain airbags. Infiniti’s Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System is also standard, as is an ABS system, Brake Assist with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), and a tire pressure monitoring system. The Technology package available for Journey models includes Infiniti’s Blind Spot Warning system, Forward Collision Warning system, Lane Departure Warning system, and Intelligent Brake Assist. The available Premium package includes Infiniti’s Around View Monitor with front and rear sonar.

2012 Infiniti EX35 Pricing

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price

$35,800

Certified Pre Owned Pricewhat is this?

$22,900

Certified Pre-Owned Price is the approximate price a consumer can expect to pay at a dealership for a used vehicle that has passed the manufacturer's certification process. This price applies only to vehicles covered under an automaker's CPO program, not to a dealership's own "certified" used price.

2012 Infiniti EX35 News and Reviews

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